The Department of Education (DepEd) has reinforced its dedication to enhancing student learning and supporting teacher growth through two new partnerships with educational organizations, formalized on November 4 at the DepEd Central Office.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara led the ceremonial signing, accompanied by Cecille L. Ang from Petron and Atty. Dominador Buhain, President of REX.
The renewed collaboration with Petron Corporation and Petron Foundation, Inc. emphasizes their commitment to promoting education nationwide. Their efforts will continue through key programs such as Tulong Aral ng Petron (TAP) for elementary and high school support, the Petron School initiative, and Brigada Eskwela.
Photo courtesy: DepEd Philippines (FB)
The Tulong Aral ng Petron (TAP) program is a corporate social responsibility initiative by Petron Corporation and the Petron Foundation, Inc., aimed at helping underprivileged Filipino children access quality education.
The program provides scholarships, educational resources, and support services to elementary and high school students from low-income families. It focuses not only on financial assistance for tuition and school supplies but also on ensuring that students receive guidance and mentoring to succeed academically.
TAP is part of Petron’s broader commitment to improving educational outcomes and uplifting communities through sustained educational advocacy.
Brigada Eskwela, also known as the National Schools Maintenance Week, is an annual program of DepEd in the Philippines aimed at preparing public schools for the upcoming school year.
Launched in 2003, the program brings together teachers, parents, students, local government units, private sector partners, and volunteers to clean, repair, and beautify schools nationwide.
Activities during Brigada Eskwela include painting classrooms, fixing broken furniture, improving school facilities, and creating a safe and conducive learning environment for students.
Through this initiative, DepEd promotes community involvement and shared responsibility in maintaining school facilities, making it a unique example of “bayanihan,” or the spirit of communal unity, in action.
Meanwhile, the partnership with Resources for Educators and Academic Professionals (REAP) aims to provide professional development modules accredited by the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP).
Photo courtesy: DepEd Philippines (FB)
These modules focus on enhancing educators’ professional skills, boosting societal and national progress, building individual confidence, and improving performance, productivity, and morale.
